What are social sciences?

Why study the social sciences?

There are many reasons why a student may choose to study the social sciences. The social sciences encompass a series of subjects that help us to understand humans and the world. They enable us to decipher human behaviour, how societies function and how different communities are formed. Studying the social sciences will help students who are interested in pursuing careers that work with people and in the community. This guide will explain the benefits of studying the social sciences, the jobs that you can pursue and what you will learn during a social science degree.

It is important to note that most universities do not simply offer a social science degree, but instead you will be required to pick one or two subjects that fall under the umbrella of social sciences to study in-depth. 

What are the social sciences?

The social sciences are a collection of subjects that study human behaviour and society. The social sciences are dedicated to studying how humans interact with each other and respond to their surroundings. While the natural sciences focus on the physical world, the social sciences are more concerned with understanding how societies and cultures are formed. 

Which social science subjects can you study?

Sociology
Sociology is the study of human society, social behaviour, patterns of social relationships, social interaction and culture. Students will examine how societies are structured, how they change, and how these structures influence individuals and groups.

Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. It explores topics such as cognition, emotion, perception, personality, development and social behaviour, seeking to understand why individuals think, feel and act the way they do.

Economics
Economics is the study of how societies allocate scarce resources to produce, distribute and consume goods and services. It analyses individual and collective decision-making related to wealth, markets and economic systems.

Political science or politics
Political science or politics is the study of government, public policies, political processes and political behaviour. It examines power, governance, international relations and the ideologies that shape political systems.

Anthropology
Anthropology is the holistic study of humanity, encompassing human biology, culture, society and language across time and space. It often involves fieldwork to understand diverse cultures and human evolution.

Geography
Geography is the study of the Earth’s landscapes, environments and the relationship between people and their environment. It integrates physical and human geography, exploring spatial patterns and processes.

History
History is the study of past events, particularly in human affairs. While often considered a humanity, historical methods often involve social scientific analysis to understand societal changes, power structures and cultural developments over time.

What is the value of studying social sciences?

There is great value in studying the social sciences. As well as the academic benefit, students of the social sciences gain a deeper understanding of human behaviour and the world around them. The following points are some of the benefits of studying social sciences. 

Developing critical thinking skills

Social science degree programmes help to develop critical thinking skills. Throughout a social science degree course students will be expected to decipher complex information, analyse empirical evidence and academic papers and write essays that will require them to put forward well-thought-out arguments. 

Understanding human behaviour and society

The social sciences, at their core, are the study of human behaviour and society. Students will learn how societies are formed, how historical influences have shaped societies and how people’s personalities are formed based on their external and internal influences. These are all things that can help students to better understand the world and the people around them. 

Fostering empathy and global awareness

Studying society and communities can help students to gain a greater awareness of people and can help to foster empathy and understanding of why people behave the way they do. 

Enhancing communication and research abilities

Most social science subjects will require students to write essays and give presentations throughout their degrees. This means that students will develop both written and verbal communication. They will develop the ability to form coherent and logical arguments in both essays and presentations. Many students will also need to draw on existing research to strengthen their arguments, which will consolidate their research abilities. 

What career paths can social science degrees lead to?

Social science programmes don’t naturally lend themselves to a specific industry or career path in the same way that medicine or engineering programmes do. The skills that are acquired in a social science programme can be used in many different careers. 

Education and academia

One of the most natural career paths for a social science graduate is to either go into teaching or to pursue a career in academia. The skills acquired in a social science degree lend themselves well to a career in education and teaching. Or if students wish to deepen their knowledge in a particular area of the social sciences, then continuing on to further education to master’s and PhD level might be a good path to follow. 

Government and public service

Working in local and government policy is a great fit for social science graduates. There are many roles within government and public service that could suit social science graduates such as policy analysts, economists, planners, speech writers and more. 

Non-profit and advocacy

A social science graduate’s understanding of the world and human behaviour would make them a good candidate for working in non-profit organisations and charities. Their understanding of social issues would suit them for roles in human rights organisations, environmental agencies, international development and charities. 

Business and marketing

The analytical nature of a social science degree prepares students for working in a business or marketing context. Their insights into human behaviour and trends are a good fit for roles in marketing, human resources and business development. 

Healthcare and social work

Healthcare and social work would be a good fit for any social science graduate. Graduates will have a good understanding of social determinants of health, community dynamics and individual well-being. This will prepare them to support vulnerable populations and contribute to better health outcomes.

What skills do you develop by studying the social sciences?

Studying the social sciences provides students with a range of transferable skills that can be applied to most jobs and career paths. 

Analytical skills

During a social science degree, students will be required to dissect complex information, identify patterns and draw their own conclusions from reading a range of studies and research papers. Data analysis and intepretation is also a large part of any social science programme. 

Problem-solving skills

Many classes in a social science programme will require students to consider complex societal problems. Students will have to consider the root cause of the problems, explore various perspectives and consider sensible, evidence-based solutions. 

Research skills

Many students will be required to write essays and a dissertation or a final project as part of their degree. Students will have to either conduct their own research projects or draw on existing research to complete these essays. From designing research questions to collecting, analysing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative data, students will gain proficiency in various research methodologies. This includes survey design, statistical analysis, ethnographic observation and historical document analysis.

Communication skills

Assessments in a social science degree will usually be to write essays and perhaps take part in group projects and presentations. These require students to develop strong written and oral communication skills that can then be transferred into any scenario. Students will learn how to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely, construct persuasive arguments, write well-structured essays and reports, and deliver engaging presentations.

Interpersonal skills

By studying human interactions and societal dynamics, students develop a greater understanding of social cues, group behaviours and cultural differences. This fosters empathy, improves the ability to collaborate, and enhances effectiveness in diverse team settings.

How do social sciences differ from natural sciences and humanities?

The main different between the social sciences and the natural sciences is that social sciences are more focused on learning about human behaviour and societies. Natural sciences are more interested in the natural world and how physical elements in our world are formed. 

Focus and methodology
Natural sciences (eg, physics, chemistry, biology) primarily focus on the natural world and space. Humanities (eg, literature, philosophy, art, history) interpret human experience, culture and meaning through qualitative analysis, critical theory and subjective understanding. 

The social sciences bridge these approaches by studying human society and behaviour using both empirical, often quantitative, methods similar to natural sciences, and interpretive, qualitative methods akin to humanities, to understand complex social structures. 

Types of questions asked
Natural sciences ask “how” questions about the physical world (such as “how does gravity work?”). Humanities ask “what does it mean?” questions about human experience and culture (such as “what is the meaning of existence?”). 

Social sciences ask “why” and “how” questions about human society and behaviour (eg, “why do societies organise themselves in certain ways?” or “how do social policies impact inequality?”). They seek to explain social patterns, predict outcomes and understand human interaction.

Is studying social sciences the right choice for you?

Consider the following points to determine if this field aligns with your interests and strengths.

Understand your interests
If you are curious about human behaviour, societal structures, cultural differences and current events, social sciences might be a good fit. Do you enjoy discussing social issues, analysing political developments or understanding psychological motivations? If so, you will likely find social science subjects engaging and rewarding.

Evaluate your strengths
Do you possess strong analytical skills, enjoy reading and writing, and have an aptitude for critical thinking? Are you comfortable with interpreting data, engaging in debates and exploring complex ideas? Social science programmes require these strengths, and they will further develop them throughout your studies.

Research programme offerings
Investigate social science programmes at different academic institutions. Look at the modules offered, the research interests of faculty and the teaching methodologies employed. Some programmes might be more theoretically focused, while others emphasise practical applications or research methods. Choose a programme that aligns with your specific interests within the broad field of social sciences.

To deepen your understanding and explore potential pathways, consider the following resources:
University prospectuses and websites: these provide detailed information about specific degree programmes, entry requirements and career services.

Academic journals and publications: reading introductory articles in journals like American Sociological Review, Journal of Political Economy or Psychological Review can give you a taste of ongoing research.

Online courses and lectures: platforms like Coursera, edX and some universities offer free or paid introductory courses in various social science disciplines.

Career guidance counsellors: speaking with school or university career advisers can help you connect your interests and strengths with potential social science career paths.

Professional associations: organisations such as the American Sociological Association (ASA), American Psychological Association (APA) or the Royal Economic Society provide resources, conferences and networking opportunities.

By engaging with these resources, you can gain a clearer picture of what studying social sciences entails and how it can shape your academic and professional future.